In a bid to improve the lives of Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs), the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has empowered 120 individuals across Rivers State with mobility aids and assistive tools, urging them to rise above limitations by cultivating a winning mindset.
The empowerment program was held in Port Harcourt as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities and the NDDC’s 25th anniversary. Speaking at the event, the Director of NDDC, Rivers State Office, Engr. Okezie Ule, represented by the Head of Community and Rural Development, Prof. Continue Eketu, said the initiative reflects the Commission’s commitment to inclusivity under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Today is the World International Day for Persons with Disabilities, and we find it necessary to show our concern and support,” Ule said. “They are not forgotten, they remain a vital part of society. We reminded them that success starts in the mind not in their physical circumstances.” He encouraged beneficiaries to view their challenges as surmountable, urging them to embrace mental resilience and determination.
“If you can’t walk, let your mind walk. If you can’t see, let your mind envision. Once you conquer your mindset, you’ve conquered 95 percent of your challenges,” he stated. The NDDC, Ule said, selected beneficiaries through registered clusters of disability associations, ensuring a targeted and effective outreach.
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He explained that the aids distributed were tailored to specific needs wheelchairs and crutches for those with mobility issues, assistive materials for the visually impaired, and learning tools for others with varied impairments.
“We’ve dealt with registered associations to ensure proper representation,” he noted. “But there are many more out there. We urge them to register so they can benefit from future programs.”
Representing the Rivers State member on the NDDC board, Chief Tony Okocha, his Special Assistant (Technical), Chibuzor Kwella, said the new leadership of the Commission is committed to changing the narrative and fostering inclusion.
Reacting to the gesture, the Chairman of the Rivers State chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Ndubusi Nwankwo—represented by Iheanyi Justice—expressed deep gratitude to the Commission.
“Many of our members have been suffering,” he said.
“You can see the joy on their faces today. There’s a lady here who stopped attending church simply because she didn’t have a wheelchair. Today, that story has changed.” Nwankwo seized the moment to urge the NDDC to take its commitment further by respecting the provisions of the 2018 Disability Act, particularly the five percent employment quota for persons with disabilities in public institutions.
“We know the NDDC currently employs nine persons with disabilities under contract—one from each Niger Delta state. We appeal to the Commission to convert those contracts to permanent appointments so we truly feel part of the Niger Delta development journey,” he said.
